Post Operative Arthroscopy Information

You have just had arthroscopic surgery which utilizes fiber-optic instruments and requires the use of a clear sterile fluid to expand the joint capsule, allowing direct visualization of the internal structures of your injured joint. You may experience some increased pain and swelling immediately following surgery but this should decrease within 4 days after surgery.

Medication: You will be prescribed two medications, one for pain and an anti-inflammatory. One of the medications is Hydrocodone (lortab) or Darvocet N100 for pain and a suitable anti- inflammatory. PLEASE REMEMBER DO NOTTAKE ANY MEDICATIONS ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

Any patients having trouble getting the Anti-Inflamatories Celebrex or Mobic approved by their insurance carrier can take 1 Aleve 2 times per day for 20 days. (Aleve is avalable over the counter)

Cold Therapy: You will be given a cold therapy pad and unit after surgery which significantly reduces pain and swelling. Doctor Barnhill believes very strongly in the benefit of cold therapy and therefore, urges all of his patients to have cold therapy.

Bathing and Dressing Care: Do not get your dressing wet. You may get the incision area wet after sutures are removed. Leakage of a reddish fluid from the dressing is common and not a cause for alarm. On the third day after your surgery you may change the dressing. A dressing pack will be provided by the hospital after your surgery. Sean Daly, the surgical assistant, will call and give instructions. Your incision sites will be closed with sutures which will be removed in 6 to 14 days depending on the procedure performed.

Activity: Crutches and a CPM machine may be needed after surgery and if so detailed instructions will be given prior to discharge from the hospital.

Important: Please remember that you have just had surgery and that internal healing takes several weeks. If you develop fever over 102 degrees or severe pain, swelling or redness around your incision area please contact the office immediately!